A cost-effectiveness analysis of two community models of care for patients with venous leg ulcers.

AIM: To conduct a cost-effectiveness analysis based on data from a randomised controlled trial comparing traditional community home nursing with a community Leg Club model for chronic venous leg ulcer management in the south-east metropolitan area of Queensland, Australia.

METHOD: Participants were randomised to the Leg Club (n=28) or home visits (n=28). Data were obtained on resources/related costs incurred by the service provider, clients and carers, and the community.

RESULTS

From the collective perspective (service provider, clients and carers, and the community), at six months the incremental cost per healed ulcer was dollars AU515 (Euros 318) and the incremental cost per reduced pain score was dollars AU322 (Euros 199). For the service provider, Leg Club intervention resulted in cost savings and better health effects when compared with home nursing.

CONCLUSION

On both clinical and economic grounds, the Leg Club model appears to be more cost-effective than traditional home nursing for the treatment of chronic venous leg ulcers. However, clients and the local community contribute substantial financial and in-kind support to the operation of both services.